Happy 20th Anniversary to Wink and Sheryl J. Moore!
{May 30th, 2025} by Wink's Intel Pros
Wink’s founder, Sheryl J. Moore’s experience at insurance companies helped her quickly identify a need that was unmet in the insurance industry for competitive intelligence. In 2005, she developed the AnnuitySpecs analysis tool, then known as AnnuitySpecs.com, out of the dining room of her home in Des Moines, Iowa. After spending endless days working alone […]
Wink, Inc. Releases 1st Quarter, 2025 Annuity Sales Results
{May 30th, 2025} by Wink's Press Release
— FOR IMMEDIATE DISTRIBUTION — NEWS RELEASE Multi-Year Guaranteed Annuities Continue Their Hot Streak Wink, Inc. Releases 1st Quarter, 2025 Annuity Sales Results Des Moines, Iowa. May 30th, 2025- Wink’s Sales & Market Report, the insurance industry’s #1 resource for annuity sales data since 1998, released its 111th edition report for 1st Quarter, 2025. One […]
First Quarter, 2025 Annuity Sales
{May 30th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
All Annuity Sales Total 1Q2025 all annuity sales were $98,254 million, compared with sales of $104,213 million for the first quarter of 2024. First quarter annuity sales were down nearly 2% when compared to the previous quarter and down nearly 6% when compared to the same period last year. All annuity sales include sales of […]
Q1 annuity sales veer off record pace, remain solidly strong, Wink finds
{May 30th, 2025} by Staff Reports
Annuity sales might have peaked, judging by the still-strong first-quarter sales data released Friday by Wink, Inc. Total Q1 sales for all annuities were $98.2 billion, according to Wink’s Sales and Market Report, down 1.9% compared to the previous quarter and down 5.7% compared to the same period last year. All annuities include the multi-year guaranteed, traditional […]
Jackson Adds Nasdaq 100 Index Option, Offers Full Principal Protection Option in Latest Registered Index-Linked Annuity Launch
{May 30th, 2025} by Jackson National Life Insurance Company
LANSING, Mich.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Jackson National Life Insurance Company® (Jackson®), the main operating subsidiary of Jackson Financial Inc.1 (NYSE: JXN), today launched Jackson Market Link Pro® III (JMLPIII) and Jackson Market Link Pro Advisory® III (JMLPAIII), further enhancing Jackson’s suite of registered index-linked annuities (RILAs). JMLPIII (commission-based) and JMLPAIII (fee-based) give consumers the potential to grow assets before and during retirement while offering different degrees […]
About 20% of new businesses fail within the first year.
{May 30th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
Did you know? About 20% of new businesses fail within the first year. This rate climbs to roughly 50% after five years. And approximately 65% of businesses fail by their tenth year in business. I have no idea what the stats are for year 20. But here’s the deal…twenty years and one day ago, I […]
Baby Boomers Might Be Fragile, Economist Warns
{May 30th, 2025} by Allison Bell
Americans born after 1947 might be sicker, more likely to die and less affluent than comparable Americans born earlier were. Nicholas Reynolds, a researcher at the University of Essex, makes the case for a broad decline in U.S. human capital in a paper published, behind a paywall, in the journal American Economic Review: Insights. Reynolds started with […]
AuguStar touts income potential with new Virtus IUL
{May 30th, 2025} by John Hilton
AuguStar Life recently took its latest Virtus indexed universal life product to market, a version with much-improved income potential, the insurer said. The Virtus IUL III is designed to “provide clients with a blend of accumulation potential, superior income distribution and protection features,” AuguStar Life said in a news release. “It is an ideal solution […]
Rising demand for guaranteed retirement income: Survey
{May 30th, 2025} by Gregg Greenberg
Things change over the course of four years – even the feelings of more than two thousand 401(k) participants when it comes to guaranteed lifetime income. Read via InvestmentNews
FIA indices evolve as the interest rate environment changes
{May 30th, 2025} by Susan Rupe
Insurance companies continue to add newly launched indices to their fixed indexed annuity products, leading to a growing need to educate on the difference between live and back-tested index performance to help properly set policyholder expectations. A panel of industry leaders discussed what goes into the development of an index during a recent National Association […]
When a VA with lifetime income benefits offers the greatest value
{May 30th, 2025} by Susan Rupe
The number of annuity offerings available in the marketplace continues to expand, but sometimes it’s a good idea to take another look at a product that’s a bit more traditional: a variable annuity with lifetime income benefit riders. A new white paper identifies when a VA with lifetime income benefits can offer the greatest relative […]
F&G Annuities & Life lays off 192 in bid to ‘efficiently scale’ business
{May 30th, 2025} by John Hilton
F&G Annuities & Life laid off 192 employees across both its home offices in Des Moines, Iowa, and remote functions. The news comes three weeks after F&G reported first-quarter earnings per share of $0.72, falling well short of analysts’ expectations. The EPS miss came despite a substantial increase in revenue: $2.18 billion against a forecast […]
Let States Regulate Insurance AI, Industry Group Says
{May 30th, 2025} by Allison Bell
The American InsurTech Council wants Congress to leave regulation of the use of artificial intelligence in insurance and annuities up to the states. Scott Harrison, a principal at the council, is asking Congress to exempt insurance AI from any law that could limit how states regulate AI. Putting state insurance AI regulators on a leash […]
BD Hit With Reg BI Fine Over Annuity Exchanges
{May 30th, 2025} by Melanie Waddell
The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority has fined AAG Capital $100,000 and ordered the firm to pay nearly $39,000 in restitution for exchanging retail customers’ insurance policies, fixed indexed annuities and variable annuities for more costly registered index-linked annuities, or RILAs. The exchanges violated Regulation Best Interest. From February 2021 through the present, AAG Capital failed […]
National Financial Literacy Remains Stagnant at 49% as Generational Gaps Widen, TIAA Institute-GFLEC Study Find
{May 30th, 2025} by TIAA Institute
NEW YORK, May 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The 9th annual nation-wide Personal Finance Index (P-Fin Index) shows financial literacy remains at low levels with US adults, on average, correctly answering only 49% of the index questions across eight key personal finance areas, the same as in 2017. The report uses 28 questions to assess financial literacy and is […]
Guardian Report: Americans point to physical and mental health as most important to well-being, but poor financial health prevents them from achieving wellness goals
{May 30th, 2025} by Guardian
NEW YORK, May 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The annual Mind, Body, and Wallet® report from The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian) reveals that Americans are largely united when it comes to how they define well-being. Across generations, genders, income, and education levels, mental and physical health top the list of the most important influences on wellness. According to […]
Royal Neighbors of America Celebrates 130 Years of Insurance with a Difference(SM)
{May 30th, 2025} by Royal Neighbors of America
ROCK ISLAND, Ill., May 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Royal Neighbors of America, one of the nation’s fastest growing fraternal life insurance organizations is celebrating its 130th anniversary. Founded in 1895 by nine visionary women, Royal Neighbors has grown to serve nearly 300,000 members nationwide. The organization is now the second-fastest growing fraternal life insurance organization in the United States.1 On May 18th, more than […]
Gen Z Grapples with Debt, Some Spend Freely Despite Low Confidence in Retirement Readiness
{May 30th, 2025} by Nationwide
COLUMBUS, Ohio, May 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Despite just beginning their careers, many American Gen Z investors (aged 18-28) are already evaluating their retirement prospects – and many feel uneasy about their financial futures. A new Advisor Authority study, powered by the Nationwide Retirement Institute, highlights the financial challenges of Gen Z investors and the unexpected spending behaviors and digital […]
Integrity Partners with Premiere Senior Advisors to Further Enhance Support of Senior Market
{May 30th, 2025} by Integrity Marketing Group, LLC
DALLAS, May 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Integrity, LLC (“Integrity”), a leading distributor of life and health insurance, and provider of wealth management and retirement planning solutions, today announced it has partnered with Premiere Senior Advisors, an independent marketing organization located in Richardson, Texas, and led by Kat Tennant. Financial details of the partnership were not disclosed. Relationship building is a […]
MIB Elects New Chair, Vice Chair, and Directors to its Board
{May 30th, 2025} by MIB Group Holdings
BRAINTREE, Mass., May 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — MIB Group Inc. and MIB Group Holdings, Inc. (collectively “MIB”) are pleased to announce elections for their joint board of directors for 2025-2026, including its chairman, vice chairman, three (3) new directors, and the re-election of six (6) incumbent directors. MIB’s board is composed of 13 independent directors and one internal director, […]
AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of Symetra Financial Corporation and Its Subsidiaries
{May 30th, 2025} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–AM Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Ratings (Long-Term ICR) of “a+” (Excellent) of Symetra Life Insurance Company and its subsidiary, First Symetra National Life Insurance Company of New York (New York, NY), together referred to as Symetra Life Group. Concurrently, AM Best has affirmed […]
Symetra Wins Silver Stevie® Award for “Bull or Bear: Brave It All”
{May 30th, 2025} by Symetra
BELLEVUE, Wash.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Symetra received a Silver Stevie® Award in the “Marketing Campaign of the Year, Financial Products & Services” category for its Retirement Division’s multi-platform “Bull or Bear: Brave It All” campaign. The business awards were created in 2002 to recognize the achievements and positive contributions of organizations and working professionals worldwide. The 2025 honorees […]
Bridging the Retirement Gap: Global Atlantic Survey Unveils Surprising Differences in Priorities Between Financial Advisors and Their Clients
{May 30th, 2025} by Global Atlantic Financial Group
NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–A new survey from Global Atlantic Financial Group (“Global Atlantic”) reveals an opportunity for financial professionals to get even more aligned with their customer regarding what matters most to them related to retirement income priorities and investment protection strategies. For example, 88% of investors, but only 66% of advisors, prioritize investments for retirement that provide […]
AM Best Affirms Credit Ratings of Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. and Its Subsidiary Share
{May 30th, 2025} by AM Best
OLDWICK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–AM Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Ratings of “a+” (Excellent) of Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. (Lincoln, NE) and Ameritas Life Insurance Corp. of New York (New York, NY). These insurance entities comprise the life/health operations of Ameritas Mutual Holding Company (all companies are collectively […]
Can a marketing organization truly be “unbiased”
{May 30th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
Can a marketing organization truly be “unbiased” when evaluating the potential replacement of an annuity? Does the potential for another override/bonus not impact the distributors’ bias? Just reading a press release about a new annuity replacement evaluation service, and read that the FMO is going to offer an “unbiased review.” I don’t think an FMO […]
Wall Street’s New ‘Shadow Banks’ Are on a Tear. They Want Your Money.
{May 30th, 2025} by Miriam Gottfried
Tom and Laurie Hegna bought annuities as part of their retirement planning. Robert Plowright took out a loan for a home-renovation project. They didn’t know it, but they were on opposite ends of a multitrillion-dollar financial machine that has become the hottest thing on Wall Street, transforming who lends money in the global economy and […]
Connecticut regulators court potential buyers for PHL Variable blocks
{May 30th, 2025} by John Hilton
One year after a Connecticut judge placed PHL Variable Insurance Co. into rehabilitation, the insurer is the subject of a controlled auction. Thirteen companies are studying confidential financial information as Connecticut regulators pursue the sale or reinsurance of PHL, or its blocks of business. “It is expected that several of PHL’s lines of business will […]
How long will my retirement savings last? Most Americans can’t answer that
{May 30th, 2025} by Steve Randall
The impact of inflation on Americans’ retirement savings is clear and it remains a key concern of retirees and those who are planning their retirement years. Read via InvestmentNews Wink’s Moore on the Market: Most Americans have no idea how long their retirement funds will last. A recent survey by Schroders provides some interesting stats: – […]
Fast forward nearly 20 years, and they cost as much as 1.55% of the Benefit Base value.
{May 30th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
Did you know that when Guaranteed Lifetime Withdrawal Benefits (GLWBs) were first introduced on indexed annuities, in March of 2006, they cost the annuitant 0.50% of the Account Value. Fast forward nearly 20 years, and they cost as much as 1.55% of the Benefit Base value. Note that this can translate to an annuitant paying […]
Texas Bill Could Speed Up Annuity Exchanges and Transfers
{May 30th, 2025} by Allison Bell
A Texas House bill could help Lone Star State clients surrender and exchange annuities more quickly. The bill, H.R. 4386, would require insurers to complete many of the transactions within 30 days after receiving a complete, accurate transaction request. Read via Think Advisor Wink’s Moore on the Market: When I used to work in the administration […]
Advisor Gets 10 Years in Prison for Stealing $2M From Elderly Clients
{May 30th, 2025} by Dinah Wisenberg Brin
A former investment advisor whose firm was acquired by Wealth Enhancement Group in late 2021 was sentenced this week to over 10 years in federal prison for stealing about $2.25 million from elderly clients, including some that were receiving end-of-life care, and using the funds to buy properties and luxury vehicles for herself, the Justice […]
Spending Drops in Retirement, but Satisfaction Doesn’t: Blanchett
{May 30th, 2025} by John Manganaro
People often assume that maintaining “financial well-being” in retirement equates to maintaining a constant standard of living, as expressed in terms of after-tax spending. New research from PGIM’s David Blanchett puts that assumption to the test. Blanchett finds that financial satisfaction increases markedly for older Americans when holding consumption levels constant. Read via Think Advisor Wink’s […]
If you need talent, now is the time to speak-up.
{May 30th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
A home office in Des Moines just cut 200 employees from their payroll. If you need talent, now is the time to speak up. Let’s help these folks. Click HERE to post job opening -sjm
I will miss his stories. He was a TRUE storyteller!
{May 30th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
An insurance icon, David Beery, has passed. He was one of my closest friends. We went to lunch once a month, just to catch up. I have never met an insurance agent that services their clients as well as Dave did. He drove all over the United States, just to meet with his clients annually. […]
A-Cap and regulators pause legal action to mediate 777 Re fallout
{May 30th, 2025} by Kenneth Araullo
The Utah Insurance Department and A-Cap Group have agreed to pause their legal proceedings and enter mediation over matters connected to 777 Re Ltd., the former Bermuda-based reinsurer at the center of an ongoing regulatory and financial investigation. The agreement, disclosed in a press release issued by A-Cap, follows a series of actions involving 777 […]
Internal Wholesaler, IMO Channel
{May 30th, 2025} by Athene
We are driven to do more. More for our customers and the financial professionals who offer our products. If you are driven to do more and love the challenge of pursuing more, Athene is your kind of company. You will find we offer more than the basics to create an inclusive and dynamic work environment […]
That still doesn’t make indexed life evil.
{May 30th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
“INDEXED LIFE IS A SCAM.” It seems the latest ploy to get more followers is posting about how terrible indexed life is. Sure- making sensational accusations will engage people when it comes to a highly-polarized topic like indexed life. But, at the end of the day, you are villainizing a product, a tool. Do some […]
F&G Annuities Cuts 192 Jobs
{May 30th, 2025} by Allison Bell
F&G Annuities eliminated 192 of about 1,400 employees Tuesday. The Des Moines, Iowa-based company said today in an email that the reduction in force affected employees at the headquarters offices along with employees in remote locations. “This is in alignment with the company’s goals to efficiently scale the business and ensure our long-term success,” the […]
Make an informed choice
{May 30th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
Amazon’s stock is gone…don’t be caught without my book “Why I Bought Indexed Annuities.” Click here to buy. -sjm
Des Moines-based F&G Annuities and Life announces it will layoff 192 workers on June 2
{May 30th, 2025} by Kevin Baskins and Tyler Jett
Des Moines-based F&G Annuities and Life will lay off employees by next week, a blow to a rare recent bright spot in the metro’s sluggish financial services sector. The company confirmed Wednesday, May 28, that it will cut 192 jobs after a disappointing first quarter due to declining annuity sales and a decrease in the value of […]
Utah regulators withdraw rehabilitation petition against A-Cap insurers
{May 30th, 2025} by John Hilton
Utah regulators dropped a petition to force Sentinel Security Life Insurance Co. and a pair of reinsurers into court-ordered rehabilitation. In late April, the Utah Insurance Department agreed to pause its litigation and participate in mediation with Advantage Capital, known as A-Cap. Sentinel Security, Haymarket Insurance Co., and Jazz Reinsurance Co. are all owned by […]
In memory of a distribution legend, Ron Essary.
{May 30th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
What a very sad week! A distribution legend, Ron Essary, passed away today. When I first became acclimated with Ron, he was running CreativeOne (back when they were called “Creative Marketing”). Thereafter, he started Ideal Producers Group. To the best of my knowledge, Ron was the first field marketing organization executive to bring an actuary […]
Business Systems Analyst: Legacy Marketing Group
{May 30th, 2025} by Legacy Marketing Group
People are Legacy’s greatest asset. We acknowledge and leverage individual differences. Our diversity and the broad wealth of knowledge that comes with such a workforce enable us to deliver excellent results and client service. Working at Legacy means you have a company that stands alongside you and behind you. We are conveniently located close to […]
Web Developer: Legacy Marketing Group
{May 30th, 2025} by Legacy Marketing Group
People are Legacy’s greatest asset. We acknowledge and leverage individual differences. Our diversity and the broad wealth of knowledge that comes with such a workforce enable us to deliver excellent results and client service. Working at Legacy means you have a company that stands alongside you and behind you. We are conveniently located close to […]
It’s a good time to consider annuities
{May 30th, 2025} by UBS Editorial
There are many factors helping to drive annuities’ growing popularity: Longer life expectancies, more expensive stock markets (which suggest lower forward-looking returns), higher interest rates (which help to improve the potential income from annuities), and more retirees that are not covered by a defined benefit plan or pension plan (according to the Center for Retirement […]
RIA Growth Could Stall in 2025: Report
{May 30th, 2025} by Melanie Waddell
The number of investment advisors registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission continues to grow — with the number of firms hitting 15,870 in 2024, up from 15,396 in 2023 — according to data from the latest Investment Adviser Industry Snapshot. The next industry snapshot, though, “may be reporting on a significantly changed industry,” said Investment […]
Wholesalers: This opportunity gives you the chance to essentially run your own business
{May 30th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
My buddy Bryan Cantrell at Simplicity Group is looking to hire wholesalers. And get this- you can work from anywhere in the U.S, and make your own hours and structure. This opportunity gives you the chance to essentially run your own business! If you are an experienced wholesaler, and interested in this opening, please contact […]
It’s OK To Be Ignorant About Annuities…Just Keep It To Yourself.
{May 30th, 2025} by Charlie Gipple, CFP, CLU, ChFC
I was scrolling through my LinkedIn feed and came across a conversation that one of my friends was having with a lady whose profile said she was a CFP® and also a “Fee Only Advisor.” What were they discussing? Annuities! You veterans know how this conversation was going with a “fee only advisor” discussing annuities! […]
Innovation In Life Brokerage: Embracing The Digital Future
{May 30th, 2025} by Ken Leibow
The life insurance industry is at a pivotal crossroads. For decades, the brokerage channel thrived by building personal relationships, navigating complex underwriting processes, and managing paper-driven applications. However, as consumer expectations shift toward instant gratification and digital convenience, life brokerage agencies must innovate to stay competitive. Read via Broker World
Annexus and North American Expand Partnership With the Launch of Secure Horizon Indexed Universal Life Insurance
{May 30th, 2025} by Annexus
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., May 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Annexus, a leading retirement product design company, has announced its continued collaboration with North American Company for Life and Health Insurance®, one of the largest issuers of life insurance and annuity products in the United States. The two companies launched Secure HorizonSM Indexed Universal Life Insurance (Secure Horizon […]
Jackson has introduced a new version of their structured annuities/RILAs.
{May 30th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
For more information on the changes, check out Wink, Inc.’s AnnuitySpecs Tool. -sjm. Jackson Adds Nasdaq 100 Index Option, Offers Full Principal Protection Option in Latest Registered Index-Linked Annuity Launch.
Looking for a Chief Financial Officer
{May 30th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
I have a client that is looking for a Chief Financial Officer. Are you qualified and interested? If so- email me your resume at sjm@intelrockstar.com, and I can make a warm introduction to my client. -sjm
Head of Income Planning, CBS Brokerage
{May 30th, 2025} by CBS Brokerage
CBS Brokerage is a dynamic and growing leader in the wholesale distribution of life insurance and annuities. We Deliver forward-thinking insurance and income solutions to independent financial advisors through a high-touch, planning-first service Model. Our Missions is to empower Advisors with products and strategies that enhance their clients’ financial outcomes — Particularly in the retirement […]
“Human vs AI” and the Future of Insurance: Insurtech Insights USA 2025 Agenda Unveils Power-Packed Lineup of Industry Disruptors
{May 30th, 2025} by Insurtech Insights
NEW YORK, May 28, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Insurtech Insights USA 2025, North America’s premier gathering of insurance executives and innovators, is set to return to the Javits Center in New York City on June 4–5, 2025, bringing together over 6,000 attendees and 400+ speakers from across the globe. With AI, digital transformation, and industry reinvention at […]
Ash Brokerage Introduces Annuity Performance Review
{May 30th, 2025} by Ash Brokerage
FORT WAYNE, Ind., May 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Ash Brokerage LLC (“Ash”), a leading distributor in the insurance industry, announced the launch of the Annuity Performance Review. When it comes to retirement, Ash Brokerage has always believed that plans and products should be reviewed on a regular basis. As clients move through the different stages of life, their […]
Let me play devil’s advocate.
{May 20th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
Why would one put a volatility-controlled mechanism on a product that is already volatility-controlled? Let’s talk amongst ourselves. Join in the LinkedIn discussion -sjm
The Standard Adds New Features to Enhanced Choice Index Plus Annuity
{May 20th, 2025} by The Standard
PORTLAND, Ore.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–The Standard recently added new features to its flagship Fixed Index Annuity product, the Enhanced Choice Index Plus. The additions are built-in guarantees, innovative crediting strategies and the introduction of the S&P 500® Dynamic Intraday TCA Index. The ECI Plus is a single-premium, deferred index annuity designed for clients seeking growth, protection and guarantees with […]
Jackson Adds Nasdaq 100 Index Option, Offers Full Principal Protection Option in Latest Registered Index-Linked Annuity Launch
{May 20th, 2025} by Jackson
LANSING, Mich.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Jackson National Life Insurance Company® (Jackson®), the main operating subsidiary of Jackson Financial Inc.1 (NYSE: JXN), today launched Jackson Market Link Pro® III (JMLPIII) and Jackson Market Link Pro Advisory® III (JMLPAIII), further enhancing Jackson’s suite of registered index-linked annuities (RILAs). JMLPIII (commission-based) and JMLPAIII (fee-based) give consumers the potential to grow assets before and during retirement while offering different degrees […]
THIS was avoidable.
{May 20th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
EXCELLENT advice from Andrew Rose, CFP® CLU®, RICP®, below. Don’t end up like me. I have been fighting right and left for seven months because my Dad has no POA, and was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. THIS was avoidable. -sjm
Director of Human Resources: Axonic Insurance Services
{May 20th, 2025} by Axonic
Summary: Axonic Insurance Services (AIS), the insurance division of an NYC-based asset management firm, is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Director of Human Resources. This individual will report directly to the Chief Operating Officer and lead all aspects of HR strategy, operations, and compliance. This role requires a hands-on leader who can balance strategic […]
Bidders Reportedly Offer Up to $9B for Brighthouse Financial
{May 20th, 2025} by Cyril Tuohy
But Sheryl Moore, CEO of life and annuity market researcher Wink, said that lower sales or shrinking market share likely wouldn’t damp interest in the carrier among the potential suitors. “This is the former MetLife,” she said. “I believe that if one of those firms can get the company at a lower price, they’d be thrilled.” Read […]
Tom Hegna Joins Annuity.com, Inc. Board to Tackle Retirement Education and Agent Shortage
{May 20th, 2025} by Annuity.com, Inc.
PHOENIX, AZ – April 17, 2025 — Annuity.com, Inc. announced today that Tom Hegna, the nation’s most recognized retirement income educator, has joined its Board of Directors—uniting two of the most influential forces in the annuity space to address the growing retirement income crisis and the shrinking agent workforce. Hegna, a retired U.S. Army Lieutenant […]
Why Millennials Are Hesitant About Life Insurance
{May 20th, 2025} by John Thornton
Millennials are navigating a financial reality that looks nothing like the one their parents experienced. They’re saddled with unprecedented levels of student debt. Housing costs have soared beyond reach in many cities. Read via Think Advisor
SEC needs to show its hand on disclosures after Cutter verdict, analysts say
{May 20th, 2025} by John Hilton
The Securities and Exchange Commission has some work to do following the recent guilty verdict against a Massachusetts advisor for insufficient disclosures. In the April verdict, the jury determined that Jeffrey Cutter and Cutter Financial Group did not violate Section 206(1) of the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, but did find violations of Section 206(2), which bars […]
California court to decide whether lapse law applies to out-of-state policies
{May 20th, 2025} by John Hilton
The California Supreme Court is tackling the thorny question of whether the state’s life insurance lapse laws apply to policies that originated in other states. In a two-sentence notice on April 16, the court agreed to a request from the Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit in Pitt v. Metropolitan Tower Life Insurance Co. […]
John Carroll Interview, Part II: Overcoming the Ned Ryerson stigma
{May 20th, 2025} by John Hilton
The average insurance agent is older, probably white, and most likely a man. These are trends the industry has tried to change for many years. But young people are shying away from careers in insurance. It isn’t for lack of opportunities. Read via INN
CEO says Athene ‘better positioned’ to stay No. 1 in volatile annuity climate
{May 20th, 2025} by John Hilton
As a tumultuous first quarter ground on, life insurance companies and annuity sellers reacted in different ways: some pulled back and some continued business as usual. Athene Life & Annuity took a different approach, CEO Jim Belardi said Monday. “With the presence of market volatility, we made the strategic decision to accelerate new business volumes, […]
Gen Z getting serious about finances
{May 20th, 2025} by Susan Rupe
Gen Z is beginning to make its mark on the world, and they are proving to be the most serious generation when it comes to finances. That’s the word from Corebridge Financial’s 2025 Financial Capability Survey, which showed 78% of Gen Zers said they already have become serious about their financial future. More than 1 in 10 […]
Insurtech investment roars back in Q1
{May 20th, 2025} by Doug Bailey
After several quarters of stagnant growth and investor fatigue, the insurtech sector roared into 2025 with renewed purpose, thanks in large part to a technology that’s no longer futuristic — just fundamental. Global insurtech funding rose 90.2% in the first quarter of 2025 to $1.31 billion, marking the sector’s strongest performance since the third quarter […]
Retirement confidence and ‘the great decide’
{May 20th, 2025} by Susan Rupe
Americans are on the precipice of huge financial choices as they prepare for retirement – a phenomenon described as “the great decide.” But a lack of confidence is keeping Americans from making the choices they need for a successful retirement. Rebecca Rickert, head of marketing communications and consumer insights for Empower, was among the panelists […]
Americans’ Financial Confidence On Decline Since 2020, Allianz Life Study Finds
{May 20th, 2025} by Allianz Life
MINNEAPOLIS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Americans’ financial confidence has declined significantly in the last five years and many do not think they are saving enough for retirement, according to the 2025 Annual Retirement Study* from the Allianz Center for the Future of Retirement, part of Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America (Allianz Life). In 2025, just 70% of […]
Carolina Insurance Advisors and Integrity Partner to Help More Americans Navigate Insurance Opportunities
{May 20th, 2025} by Integrity Marketing Group, LLC
DALLAS, May 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Integrity, LLC (“Integrity”), a leading distributor of life and health insurance, and provider of wealth management and retirement planning solutions, today announced it has partnered with Carolina Insurance Advisors, an independent marketing organization based in Raleigh, North Carolina, and led by Joe Goins. Financial details of the partnership were not disclosed. “Integrity partnerships bring together […]
Integrity Named One of the Nation’s Happiest Places to Work for the Third Consecutive Year
{May 20th, 2025} by Integrity Marketing Group, LLC
DALLAS, May 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Integrity, LLC (“Integrity”), a leading distributor of life and health insurance, and provider of wealth management and retirement planning solutions, today announced it has been named one of the top 100 large companies in the U.S. for company happiness. Integrity ranks alongside other distinguished award winners such as Adobe, Salesforce, Uber […]
Guardian Report: Americans point to physical and mental health as most important to well-being, but poor financial health prevents them from achieving wellness goals
{May 20th, 2025} by Guardian
NEW YORK, May 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The annual Mind, Body, and Wallet® report from The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian) reveals that Americans are largely united when it comes to how they define well-being. Across generations, genders, income, and education levels, mental and physical health top the list of the most important influences on wellness. According to […]
LMT Financial Partners with Integrity to Enhance Commitment to Assist More Americans in Achieving Greater Future Security
{May 20th, 2025} by Integrity Marketing Group, LLC
DALLAS, May 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Integrity, LLC (“Integrity”), a leading distributor of life and health insurance, and provider of wealth management and retirement planning solutions, today announced it has partnered with LMT Financial, an independent marketing organization based near Orlando, Florida, and led by Jonathan Mason. Financial details of the partnership were not disclosed. LMT Financial has established a solid […]
Ash Brokerage Introduces Annuity Performance Review
{May 20th, 2025} by Ash Brokerage
FORT WAYNE, Ind., May 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Ash Brokerage LLC (“Ash”), a leading distributor in the insurance industry, announced the launch of the Annuity Performance Review. When it comes to retirement, Ash Brokerage has always believed that plans and products should be reviewed on a regular basis. As clients move through the different stages of life, their […]
Americans’ Financial Confidence On Decline Since 2020, Allianz Life Study Finds
{May 20th, 2025} by Allianz
MINNEAPOLIS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Americans’ financial confidence has declined significantly in the last five years and many do not think they are saving enough for retirement, according to the 2025 Annual Retirement Study* from the Allianz Center for the Future of Retirement, part of Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America (Allianz Life). In 2025, just 70% of […]
Symetra Wins Silver Stevie® Award for “Bull or Bear: Brave It All”
{May 20th, 2025} by Symetra
BELLEVUE, Wash.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Symetra received a Silver Stevie® Award in the “Marketing Campaign of the Year, Financial Products & Services” category for its Retirement Division’s multi-platform “Bull or Bear: Brave It All” campaign. The business awards were created in 2002 to recognize the achievements and positive contributions of organizations and working professionals worldwide. The 2025 honorees […]
Bridging the Retirement Gap: Global Atlantic Survey Unveils Surprising Differences in Priorities Between Financial Advisors and Their Clients
{May 20th, 2025} by Global Atlantic Financial Group
NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)–A new survey from Global Atlantic Financial Group (“Global Atlantic”) reveals an opportunity for financial professionals to get even more aligned with their customer regarding what matters most to them related to retirement income priorities and investment protection strategies. For example, 88% of investors, but only 66% of advisors, prioritize investments for retirement that provide […]
Trump Wants To Lower Interest Rates: 4 Ways That Could Benefit Retirees
{May 20th, 2025} by Gabrielle Olya
President Donald Trump has long been pushing for lower U.S. interest rates, exerting pressure on the Federal Reserve — despite the fact that the central bank is not controlled by the president. If Trump gets his way, however, there could be ripple effects across the economy, some of which will impact retirees. Read via YAHOO! Finance
6 steps to successful IUL sales
{May 20th, 2025} by Angela Palo
In more than 20 years working as an insurance agent, I saw firsthand the importance of understanding universal life insurance when it was still the new kid on the block, and well before IUL became a real thing in the late 1990s. Read via INN Wink’s Moore on the Market: I don’t want to be […]
Will the Multi-Year Guaranteed Annuity Spigot Run Dry?
{May 20th, 2025} by Allison Bell
This might be a good time for clients who like annuities with high guaranteed rates to act, because some big issuers are starting to sound less interested in offering the product. The possibility that the window for good deals on multi-year guaranteed annuity contracts might be closing emerged from the recent round of earnings calls […]
How did this guy get past compliance?
{May 20th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
Wink’s Moore on the Market: Indexed annuities are safer than the bank? Bank products are backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government. Annuities are not. The guaranty fund is absolutely NOT backed by the government, folks! I feel very uncomfortable about a person indicating there are no solvency issues with annuities. […]
How much does a $1 million annuity pay monthly?
{May 20th, 2025} by Angelica Leicht
With interest rates still elevated and recession concerns casting a shadow over the markets, many Americans are seeking financial products that can offer security and stability in retirement. Among the most talked-about options right now? Annuities. These financial contracts turn your lump sum into a predictable stream of monthly income. And, while that can be a smart […]
Will Annuity Capital Sidecars Keep Rolling?
{May 20th, 2025} by Allison Bell
Fitch Ratings is looking hard at annuity issuers’ sources of capital and risk management help to see how everything is holding up. One of the capital sources getting attention is “sidecars,” or vehicles that let institutions, ultra-high-net-worth individuals, ultra-HNW clients’ family offices, financial institutions and other sophisticated investors help fuel insurance and annuity arrangements. Read […]
Digital annuity sales begin as American National exits life insurance segment
{May 20th, 2025} by Kenneth Araullo
American National Insurance Co. has introduced an online platform for purchasing fixed annuities, marking a step in its broader shift away from life insurance and toward other business lines such as annuities, pension risk transfer, and property and casualty insurance. The digital portal was launched ahead of the company’s formal decision to stop writing new […]
Will Annuity Issuers’ RILA Phase Last?
{May 20th, 2025} by Allison Bell
The big, publicly traded U.S. life and annuity issuers did well in the first quarter, in spite of everything, but analysts at Morgan Stanley are wondering about the registered index-linked annuity boom. Today, Bob Jian Huang and other Morgan Stanley analysts wrote, the issuers are turning toward sales of RILA contracts and away from sales of traditional […]
WINK DELIVERS MORE DATA THROUGH THEIR API SOLUTION
{May 12th, 2025} by Wink's Press Release
— FOR IMMEDIATE DISTRIBUTION — NEWS RELEASE WINK DELIVERS MORE DATA THROUGH THEIR API SOLUTION Wink’s AnnuitySpecs Offers an Application Programming Interface for Standard and Bespoke Data Needs Des Moines, Iowa. May 9, 2025– In the continued pursuit of their mission statement, “To provide the best darned competitive intelligence to the life insurance and annuity […]
Posting again, so don’t say I didn’t warn you
{May 12th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
If you are an index provider, and you have not asked me to include you in my directory, you need to. Please let me know if you have any questions. Thanks! -sjm
AuguStar Life launches most competitive income IUL product to date
{May 12th, 2025} by AuguStar Life
CINCINNATI , May 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — AuguStar® Life, a Constellation company, is proud to announce the launch of Virtus IUL III, one of the life insurance industry’s top indexed universal life products. Designed to provide clients with a blend of accumulation potential, superior income distribution and protection features, it is an ideal solution for both personal and business […]
Nationwide Prepares to Enter a Quiet Slice of a Booming Segment
{May 12th, 2025} by Cyril Tuohy
Eight insurers currently offer 21 fixed-rate annuities with a guaranteed lifetime withdrawal benefit, according to life and annuity researcher Wink. Insurers range from powerhouses such as Prudential Financial, Corebridge Financial and New York Life, to smaller players like Oxford Life and Sentinel Security Life. Some insurers automatically include the income benefit while others offer the benefit as an option. Wink CEO Sheryl Moore said fixed […]
Annuity Sellers Sharpen Channel Focus to Gain Competitive Edge
{May 12th, 2025} by Warren S. Hersch
Sheryl Moore, CEO of Wink, which publishes Wink‘s Sales & Market Report, said in an email that sales drivers vary by channel. She noted, for example, that “premium banding” is more impactful in the bank channel than through distributors catering to independent agents. Premium banding is a pricing structure where an annuity’s credited interest rate varies based on […]
John Hancock Marks 10 Years of Helping Customers Live Longer, Healthier, Better Lives Since Launch of Industry-Leading Vitality Program
{May 12th, 2025} by John Hancock
BOSTON, May 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ – Today, John Hancock, a unit of Toronto-based Manulife, is marking the ten-year anniversary of John Hancock Vitality, honoring the insurer’s commitment to helping customers live longer, healthier, better lives. Launched in the spring of 2015, the John Hancock Vitality program, which provides customers with education, support, incentives, and rewards for the everyday things […]
Americans rate their financial happiness a 4.9 out of 10
{May 12th, 2025} by Empower
GREENWOOD VILLAGE, Colo., May 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — On America’s financial scorecard, people rate their happiness with their overall personal finances a 4.97 out of 10, according to new research from Empower, a financial services company – and scores need improvement across the board, as the majority (91%) are prioritizing their financial health and happiness in a year […]
Employees struggle financially making it paycheck to paycheck, while employers fall short in meeting expectations for support
{May 12th, 2025} by Prudential
NEWARK, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Prudential Financial, Inc. (NYSE: PRU) released today its annual Benefits & Beyond study that reveals day-to-day financial stress is a leading concern for employees. Employees are raising their expectations for robust workplace benefits and believe their employers should play a larger role in helping them alleviate that stress. Employers agree, yet many aren’t keeping up […]
Lincoln Financial Expands Elite Indexed Universal Life Portfolio With New Early Cash Value Product
{May 12th, 2025} by Lincoln Financial
RADNOR, Pa.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Today, Lincoln Financial (NYSE: LNC) announced the launch of Lincoln WealthBuilderSM ECV IUL, an accumulation-focused life insurance product designed with early cash value benefits for premium finance1 and business cases. It is the second product available as part of the company’s new Elite Indexed Universal Life (IUL) Portfolio issued by The Lincoln National Life Insurance Company. “The opportunity […]
Lincoln Financial Reports 2025 First Quarter Results
{May 12th, 2025} by Lincoln Financial
RADNOR, Pa.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Lincoln Financial (NYSE: LNC) today reported financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025. Execution against strategic and financial objectives drove another quarter of strong performance. First quarter net income (loss) available to common stockholders was $(756) million, or $(4.41) per diluted share. First quarter adjusted operating income available to common […]
Brighthouse Financial Announces First Quarter 2025 Results
{May 12th, 2025} by Brighthouse Financial, Inc
CHARLOTTE, N.C.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Brighthouse Financial, Inc. (“Brighthouse Financial” or the “company”) (Nasdaq: BHF) announced today its financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025. First Quarter 2025 Results The company reported a net loss available to shareholders of $294 million in the first quarter of 2025, or $5.04 per diluted share, compared with a […]
Jackson brushes off reinsurance loss, volatility with Q1 annuity sales bump
{May 12th, 2025} by John Hilton
Jackson Financial continues its evolution from primarily a variable annuity seller to a one-stop annuity operation that performs like an asset manager. Jackson’s retail annuity suite reported first-quarter growth across all lines, executives said Thursday: Sales of variable annuities, which reached $2.7 billion, were up 9% from the first quarter of 2024, with a more […]
Brighthouse Financial execs dodge sale rumors, mixed Q1 numbers
{May 12th, 2025} by John Hilton
Rumors are swirling about the potential sale of Brighthouse Financial but executives were tight-lipped during a Friday conference call with Wall Street analysts. “We don’t comment on market rumors or speculation, so I’m just going to leave it at that,” CEO Eric Steigerwalt said at the conclusion of the call. According to a recent Semafor report, Sixth […]
Life insurance application activity again flat in April, MIB reports
{May 12th, 2025} by Staff Reports
Life insurance application activity continued its languid pace in April 2025, up just 0.5% over the year-ago month, the MIB Life Index reported Thursday. When comparing April 2025 to the same month in prior years, activity was up 10.9% compared to 2023 and up 9.3% compared to 2022. On a year-to-date basis, activity through April […]
California Court OKs $80M Life Insurance Policy Lapse Notice Settlement
{May 12th, 2025} by Allison Bell
A proposed class-action settlement in California could help tens of thousands of people who failed to pay their life insurance premiums get their coverage back. U.S. Magistrate Judge Allison Goddard recently granted preliminary approval of a settlement between two insurers — Protective Life Insurance Co. and West Coast Life Insurance Co. — and the owners […]
FINRA Suspends Rep for Unsuitable Annuity Switches
{May 12th, 2025} by Melanie Waddell
The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority has fined a former rep and suspended him for 12 months for recommending 10 unsuitable L-share variable annuity exchanges to nine customers, and two unsuitable variable annuity purchases to two customers — which resulted in the customers paying higher fees. According to FINRA’s order, from June 2019 to February 2020, Thomas […]
Fierce Annuity Competition Pushes Issuers to Stand Out
{May 12th, 2025} by Allison Bell
Competition in the U.S. retail annuity market is ferocious, and that could add options for clients who want something different. Lincoln Financial CEO Ellen Cooper talked about the impact of competition on annuity issuer product and strategy creativity today during a conference call with securities analysts. The company’s annuity sales increased 33% between the first […]
Global Atlantic opens larger Bermuda office to support growth
{May 12th, 2025} by Kenneth Araullo
Global Atlantic Financial Group has announced the expansion of its Bermuda operations with the opening of a new office at Washington House on Church Street in Hamilton. The new office spans more than 15,000 square feet, tripling the size of Global Atlantic’s previous space. The facility features open-concept work areas, a lounge, and an […]
If people don’t know that you have it, they’ll assume you don’t.
{May 12th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
We’ve had this for a couple of years, but I thought that maybe I should promote it. If people don’t know that you have it, they’ll assume you don’t. -sjm
OneAmerica Financial® and Amada Senior Care Announce Innovative Collaboration to Support Caregivers
{May 12th, 2025} by OneAmerica Financial
INDIANAPOLIS, May 12, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — OneAmerica Financial® and Amada Senior Care, two leaders in the Long-Term Care (LTC) industry, today announced a collaboration aimed at improving the LTC experience for both policyholders and their caregivers. Recognizing the growing and vital role informal caregivers play in supporting their loved ones during long-term care events, OneAmerica Financial recently enhanced its market […]
Finra Defends Outside-Biz Rule Proposal
{May 12th, 2025} by Alex Padalka
The Financial Industry Regulatory Authority is hitting back at critics of its recent proposal on updating its regulations on brokers’ and employees’ outside business activities. In March, the industry’s self-regulator issued a request for comment on its proposal to “streamline and reduce unnecessary burdens” and address what it called a “dichotomy” created by the two different rules that are […]
6 steps to successful IUL sales
{May 12th, 2025} by Angela Palo
In more than 20 years working as an insurance agent, I saw firsthand the importance of understanding universal life insurance when it was still the new kid on the block, and well before IUL became a real thing in the late 1990s. IUL is a powerful financial tool that combines life insurance security with the […]
Keep life insurance companies protecting families
{May 12th, 2025} by Staff
Every day, hardworking Oklahomans roll up their sleeves to build better lives — for themselves, their families and their communities. What many folks might not realize is that there’s a powerful engine working quietly behind the scenes to support all that progress: the life insurance industry. Having led the American Council of Life Insurers for seven years, […]
Allianz Life Debuts Enhanced Annuity Options
{May 11th, 2025} by Amanda Umpierrez
Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America announced that it is launching enhanced versions of two fixed index annuities in response to consumer demand and to further help protect Americans from ongoing market volatility. Allianz Benefit Control+TM Annuity and Allianz 222+TM Annuity have more options for diversification and personalization with new features: Read via 401k
Annuity Issuers’ Ordinary Bonds Are Hard to Trade, Apollo’s CEO Warns
{May 11th, 2025} by Allison Bell
The tariff-related storms that hit world investment markets in April showed that, on bad days, publicly traded bonds are not very liquid, according to Apollo Global Management CEO Marc Rowan. Rowan talked about the days when the public bond markets gummed up during a conference call the asset manager held Friday to go over first-quarter […]
Contingent Deferred Annuities: Time for Renewal?
{May 11th, 2025} by Carlton Fields, Harry Eisenstein
Contingent deferred annuities (CDAs) represent an interesting approach to securing lifetime income but have struggled for recognition in the marketplace since their introduction more than a decade ago. Recent developments, however, offer the product a chance for new life and offer advisers an opportunity to build out their toolkits for assisting investors who want a […]
Flourish Annuity Platform Marks Major Expansion
{May 11th, 2025} by John Manganaro
The wealth management technology provider Flourish has announced a significant expansion of its annuity distribution platform for registered investment advisors. The platform, launched in early 2024, now includes registered index-linked annuities, fixed indexed annuities and variable annuities. In addition, advisors serving retirees seeking greater income security can now add guaranteed lifetime withdrawal benefits (GLWBs) to eligible […]
New Jersey Adopts the “Best Interest” Standard in Annuity Transactions
{May 11th, 2025} by Bressler, Amery & Ross, P.C., Roxanne Rehm
On April 21, New Jersey became the 50th and final state to adopt the Best Interest standard for annuity transactions. The new New Jersey standard is based on the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) Suitability in Annuity Transactions Model Regulation and is designed to protect consumers purchasing annuities by implementing requirements for duty of care, […]
Regional Vice President-Life Insurance
{May 9th, 2025} by AuguStar Life
Regional Vice President for the Upper Midwest territory is responsible for generating sales and growing AuguStar Life Insurance for assigned territories in person and virtually. Proactively marketing AuguStar Life Insurance products through the recruitment of new General Agents while building and retaining relationships with existing General Agents. We are specifically looking for an RVP located […]
I am insurance.
{May 8th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
**********My life has been full of adversity.********** – Born to teenage parents; – Abused throughout childhood; – Lived in abject poverty; – Married a police officer who went to prison; – First child born with birth defects and health problems; – Single mom with three babies, and no child support; – Lived in abject poverty […]
Revol One Financial® Enduris 6 & 10 FIA™s Can Provide Annuity Owners with Protection from Early Market Volatility
{May 8th, 2025} by Revol One Financial
URBANDALE, IA, UNITED STATES, May 1, 2025 /EINPresswire.com/ — In a year already marked by sharp market swings, Revol One Financial® is delivering a product feature built for uncertain times. The Best Entry Rider, available exclusively on the Enduris 6 and Enduris 10 Fixed Indexed Annuities™ (FIAs), is designed to help annuity owners weather market volatility early in the […]
Allianz Life Introduces New Versions of Top-Selling Fixed Index Annuities
{May 8th, 2025} by Allianz
MINNEAPOLIS–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America (Allianz Life) announced today that it is launching enhanced versions of two of its top-selling1 fixed index annuities in response to consumer demand and to further help protect Americans from ongoing market volatility. Allianz Benefit Control+TM Annuity and Allianz 222+TM Annuity have more options for diversification and personalization with new […]
Private-Equity Firms Have Increased Risk in Life Insurance, Berkshire’s Jain Says
{May 8th, 2025} by Andy Serwer
The Berkshire shareholder had an insurance question for CEO Warren Buffett and the company’s insurance head, Ajit Jain. It centered on private-equity firms like Blackstone, Apollo, and KKR aggressively expanding to insurance and increasing risk. “There’s no question the private-equity firms have come into this space, and we are no longer competitive in this space,” […]
Nationwide increases roll-up rates on L.inc+, High Point 365 annuity riders
{May 8th, 2025} by Nationwide
Columbus, OH – As investors continue to struggle with today’s volatile economic environment, Nationwide has announced enhanced rates on guaranteed income riders offered in its variable and fixed indexed annuities, providing investors with better value on riders offering flexibility, growth and stability during market volatility. The Nationwide Lifetime Income Rider+® (L.inc+) Suite and Nationwide High […]
CLOs: The 4th Leg of the ‘Bermuda Triangle’
{May 8th, 2025} by Kerry Pechter
Shadow banking” is a phenomenon I’d heard of but never fully understood. Read the story via RIJ. Wink’s Moore on the Market: Do you keep hearing about collateralized loan obligations (CLOs), in association with private equity, but have difficulty understanding them? Well, Kerry Pechter and Retirement Income Journal have us covered! Check it out. […]
Market volatility and its impact on FIA participation rates
{May 8th, 2025} by Susan Rupe
Volatility is a word that has been thrown about a lot lately when describing the state of the stock market and the general economy. But what does market volatility have to do with fixed indexed annuities? A recent webinar by the National Association for Fixed Annuities explained the connection. Volatility impacts FIA participation rates – […]
Offshore reinsurance booms as regulators play catch-up
{May 8th, 2025} by John Hilton
Update: A-Cap insurers and Utah regulators agreed to mediation to settle their dispute. In a deal announced April 29, Utah and three A-Cap-owned insurance companies, Sentinel Security Life Insurance Co., Haymarket Insurance Co., and Jazz Reinsurance Co. agreed to pause their pending litigation. To be a big life and annuity player in 2025 practically requires having […]
KKR execs vow to ‘keep investing’ amid global economic distress
{May 8th, 2025} by John Hilton
KKR will not pull back from its strategy in the face of worldwide market volatility, said co-CEO Scott Nuttall. In fact, the firm expects to be even more aggressive. The global private-equity and investment company – and owner of Global Atlantic Financial Group – KKR reported first-quarter earnings and met with Wall Street analysts Thursday morning. Read […]
Prudential rides U.S. Businesses to Q1 win, but new CEO wants more
{May 8th, 2025} by John Hilton
Prudential Financial reported a first-quarter profit gain off strong underwriting in the insurer’s U.S. Businesses unit. However, new CEO Andrew Sullivan, who was overseeing his first quarterly report, said it was not enough. The Prudential board of directors named Sullivan to succeed Charles Lowrey in December and he took over on March 31. Read via INN
Apollo shakes off loss of ‘Goldilocks’ economy, keeps making money
{May 8th, 2025} by John Hilton
Markets worldwide might be destabilized by ongoing tariff wars initiated by the United States, as well as aggressive military activity in the Middle East and Ukraine. But Apollo Global Management will continue making money. Read via INN
Globe Life execs happy to focus on Q1 sales as controversies fade
{May 8th, 2025} by John Hilton
Globe Life executives took a break from two years of relentlessly bad publicity to discuss strong first-quarter financials this week. The McKinney, Texas-based insurer reported a 13% increase in net income per share and a 10% rise in net operating income per share over the year-ago quarter. The company also reported significant growth in life […]
Corebridge Financial rides RILA rollout success amid choppy Q1 waters
{May 8th, 2025} by John Hilton
Corebridge Financial completed its first full quarter selling a registered index-linked product and the Q1 results were excellent, CEO Kevin Hogan said Wednesday. Introduced in October, the MarketLock RILA made Corebridge the biggest annuity seller to offer products in every major category. The insurer recorded $260 million in RILA sales during the first quarter, Hogan told […]
Guardian enhances Guardian MarketPerform®, expanding access to New York and adding more customizations
{May 8th, 2025} by Guardian
NEW YORK, May 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America® (Guardian) has announced that Guardian MarketPerform®, its Registered Index-Linked Annuity (RILA), is now available in New York. First launched nationwide in 2024, Guardian is also introducing additional investment customization options to Guardian MarketPerform. Guardian MarketPerform is a long-term, tax-deferred retirement product. It offers features that allow those […]
Brookfield Asset Management touts big first-quarter fundraising
{May 8th, 2025} by John Hilton
As private equity giants jockey for assets, Brookfield Asset Management staked its claim with a powerful first-quarter performance. The firm reported a 26% year-over-year increase in fee-related earnings, reaching a record $698 million for the quarter. Distributable earnings also saw a significant jump, growing by 20% to $654 million. Read via INN
FINRA’s New Outside Activities Proposal Is Absurd
{May 8th, 2025} by Ric Edelman
Ed. Note: On May 5, FINRA clarified that its proposal would not require associated persons to report to and receive approval from their broker-dealers to personally purchase bitcoin, a beach house or insurance or maintain a bank account, and that these types of personal activities are, in fact, excluded from the rule. Just when everybody thought crypto […]
Corebridge CEO: Annuity Market Pricing Is Still Rational
{May 8th, 2025} by Allison Bell
Demand for individual annuities is still strong, Corebridge Financial’s CEO told securities analysts Tuesday during a conference call. Corebridge is one of the biggest individual annuity issuers. Marc Rowan, the CEO of Apollo Global Management — the owner of another big annuity issuer, Athene — said Friday that some rivals have been selling annuities for rates […]
Life Insurance ‘Will Not Be a Pay-For’ for Tax Bill, Finseca Tells Congress
{May 8th, 2025} by Allison Bell
Finseca is trying to keep budget and tax bill negotiators in Washington from squeezing more cash out of life insurers and life policyholders. “This industry will not be a pay-for for this tax bill,” Jennifer Fox, the group’s vice president of federal affairs, said in a video with Finseca CEO Marc Cadin that was posted recently on […]
Talcott Arm to Reinsure $10B in MetLife Variable Annuity and Rider Reserves
{May 8th, 2025} by Allison Bell
MetLife has picked an arm of Talcott Resolution Life to reinsure U.S. retail variable annuities and annuity riders backed by about $10 billion in reserves. Completing the deal would eliminate about $100 million in annual earnings. But the deal should also cut investment hedging costs by $45 million per year, free about $250 million in […]
Life Insurance Brokers Need DOL Attention
{May 8th, 2025} by Howard Wolkowitz
Today, under Internal Revenue Service guidelines, career agents are considered statutory employees of the life insurer. Independent brokers do not qualify for statutory employee status. Read via Think Advisor
Annuity Issuers Ask Congress to Change the Tax Rules for Their Bonds
{May 8th, 2025} by Allison Bell
Life insurers are asking Congress for an Internal Revenue Code change that could make annuities cheaper and easier to offer. The insurers want Congress to recognize that bonds and notes are the beef and beans that fill the annuity burritos, not the stoves, ovens and other capital assets used to cook them. Read via Think […]
A lower maximum premium for indexed annuity contracts, that are owned by Trusts or Corporations. Why?
{May 8th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
I have a client that has a question, which I cannot answer. Can you help? “We have seen that some companies have a lower maximum premium for indexed annuity contracts, that are owned by Trusts or Corporations. Our observation is that most indexed annuities have a max premium of $2 million or $3 million. However, […]
Wow. I cannot read on.
{May 8th, 2025} by Sheryl J. Moore
In reply to How to Choose an Annuity: Best Annuity Companies of 2025. “Most annuities require buyers to be at least 59 ½ before permitting penalty-free withdrawals.” Not exactly. “Otherwise, you incur a 10% early withdrawal fee.” Actually, it could be as much as 20%. *wince* “…[it] grows (often tax-deferred) through interest payments or investments.” […]
Jackson Announces First Quarter 2025 Results
{May 8th, 2025} by Jackson Financial Inc.
LANSING, Mich.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Jackson Financial Inc. (NYSE: JXN) (Jackson®) today announced its financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025. First Quarter 2025 Key Highlights Retail annuity sales1 of $4.0 billion in the first quarter of 2025, up 9% from the first quarter of 2024 Variable annuity sales1 of $2.7 billion in the first quarter of 2025, […]
Midland National and Dimensional Fund Advisors Announce Collaboration to Deliver New ETF-based Custom Index Annuity Solutions for Advisors and Their Clients
{May 8th, 2025} by Midland Advisory
WEST DES MOINES, Iowa–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Midland Advisory, part of Midland National® Life Insurance Company, announces a new collaboration with Dimensional Fund Advisors to enhance index-linked annuity solutions. This initiative introduces a creative way for advisors to access Dimensional’s investment philosophy within the framework of a registered index-linked annuity (RILA), in which performance is linked to a custom index constructed […]
Global Atlantic Unveils New Bermuda Office to Accommodate Expansion and Growth
{May 8th, 2025} by Global Atlantic Financial Group
HAMILTON, Bermuda–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Global Atlantic Financial Group (“Global Atlantic”), a leading insurance company meeting the retirement and life insurance needs of individuals and institutions, today announced a strategic expansion of its Bermuda office into a new, state-of-the-art facility at Washington House, located on Church Street in Hamilton. The move marks a major milestone for the company’s continued […]
Corebridge Financial Announces First Quarter 2025 Results
{May 8th, 2025} by Corebridge Financial, Inc
HOUSTON–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Corebridge Financial, Inc. (“Corebridge” or the “Company”) (NYSE: CRBG) today reported financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025. Kevin Hogan, President and Chief Executive Officer, said, “Corebridge generated strong earnings and delivered attractive capital return over the first quarter, executing on our strategic priorities. Our capital, liquidity and financial flexibility position […]
Insure.com’s 2025 Mother’s Day Index: Mom’s Salary Hits $145,235
{May 8th, 2025} by Insure.com
FOSTER CITY, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Insure.com, a trusted source for expert insurance insights, has released its 15th annual Mother’s Day Index, which finds that the unpaid work mothers typically perform at home would command an annual salary of $145,235 — a 4% increase from last year. Read the full report: Mother’s Day Index 2025: Mom’s salary up 4% […]
F&G Annuities & Life Reports First Quarter 2025 Results
{May 8th, 2025} by F&G Annuities & Life, Inc.
DES MOINES, Iowa, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — F&G Annuities & Life, Inc. (NYSE: FG) (F&G or the Company) a leading provider of insurance solutions serving retail annuity and life customers and institutional clients, today reported financial results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2025. Net loss attributable to common shareholders (net loss) for the first quarter of $25 million, […]
FNF Reports First Quarter 2025 Financial Results
{May 8th, 2025} by Fidelity National Financial, Inc.
JACKSONVILLE, Fla., May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Fidelity National Financial, Inc. (NYSE:FNF) (“FNF” or the “Company”), a leading provider of title insurance and transaction services to the real estate and mortgage industries and a leading provider of insurance solutions serving retail annuity and life customers and institutional clients through its majority-owned, publicly traded subsidiary F&G Annuities & […]
F&G Annuities & Life Ranked Among Top Pension Risk Transfer Market Leaders For Fourth Consecutive Year
{May 8th, 2025} by F&G Annuities & Life, Inc.
DES MOINES, Iowa, May 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — F&G Annuities & Life, Inc. (NYSE: FG) (F&G or the Company), a leading provider of insurance solutions serving retail annuity and life customers and institutional clients, today announced cumulative sales of pension risk transfer (PRT) transactions of more than $7 billion solidifying the Company’s top 10 ranking among PRT market leaders for […]
Joining the Century Club: The New Retirement Risk Americans Aren’t Ready For
{May 8th, 2025} by Nationwide
COLUMBUS, Ohio, May 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The number of Americans living to 100 and beyond is expected to quadruple by 2054, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. Yet despite this surge in longevity, new research from Nationwide Retirement Institute and The American College of Financial Services (“The College”) reveals a troubling disconnect: while lifespans are rising well into the […]
Mountain Life Announces Montana Expansion
{May 8th, 2025} by Mountain Life Insurance Compnany
LEXINGTON, Ky., May 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Mountain Life Insurance Company is pleased to announce that it is now operational in the state of Montana. With the awarding of its latest license by the state of Montana, the company now offers its range of products to customers in 13 states. Mountain Life looks forward to welcoming its first agents and customers […]
Kansas City Life Announces First Quarter 2025 Results
{May 8th, 2025} by Kansas City Life Insurance Company
KANSAS CITY, Mo., May 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Kansas City Life Insurance Company recorded net income of $1.9 million or $0.19 per share in the first quarter of 2025 compared to net income of $1.6 million or $0.16 per share in the first quarter of 2024. This result included a $4.2 million or 6% decrease in policyholder benefits, net of reinsurance, and a $0.9 million or 3% […]
